Virgin Trains launches “industry first” rail disruption tool

The service provides a “one-stop shop” for real-time travel information, delay predictions and alternative routes across all UK operators, with features including a colour-coded guide to indicate how serious any disruption is, and suggested alternative routes for any disruption expected to last more than 30 minutes.

Powered by Google Maps and National Rail Enquiries, the tool has been developed by Virgin Trains, Southeastern and the Rail Delivery Group, with Virgin majority-funding the service from its £25 million Innovation Fund.

It will initially be available exclusively to Virgin Trains customers on the group’s website for a period of three months, with users invited to submit feedback. After this time it will be made available to other operators for them, to roll out to their customers.

The tool is available via the Virgin Trains East Coast (VTEC) mobile app or its website.

Commenting on the launch Warrick Dent, safety and operations at Virgin Trains on the east coast said:

“Virgin Trains has a strong track record of innovation, and Train Mapper is the latest example of how we’re giving our customers more control.

“We work hard to avoid disruption affecting our customers wherever possible and we want to put more information into the hands of our customers to allow them to make the most informed decision possible, whether that’s to delay their journey or take an alternative route.

“This tool will be fed by real time information so the latest live updates and travel information is all shown in one place. We know how frustrating it can be when services are delayed, which is why we’re not only investing in our stations and trains, but also in new technology that we hope will help customers make decisions about how they travel.”